Health Library

Conditions That Have Symptoms Similar to Uterine Cancer

Some women get noncancerous tumors in the wall of their uterus. These are called fibroid tumors or leiomyomas. Some fibroids cause no symptoms at all, but others may cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, unusual vaginal bleeding, and the urge to urinate frequently. These tumors are common and are not cancerous. Often, no treatment is necessary for fibroid tumors.

Other women get endometriosis. In this condition, the endometrial tissue that lines the uterus is found in other areas of the body, usually in the pelvis. This is not cancer, but some women with endometriosis may have cramps and pelvic pain, unusual vaginal bleeding, and some of them cannot have children. Endometriosis pain tends to be cyclic, and monthly. It may happen throughout the cycle.

An overgrowth of cells in the endometrial lining is called endometrial hyperplasia. This is a precancerous condition that can occur in women around the time of menopause. Unless it is treated, it may turn into cancer. Symptoms include unusual vaginal bleeding.

Symptoms of endometrial (uterine) cancer include unusual vaginal bleeding or any vaginal bleeding that occurs after menopause. Pelvic pain may or may not be present.

If you have any unusual vaginal bleeding, particularly after menopause, don’t ignore it. Make sure you see your doctor.